Volkameriana (Volkamer lemon)
Volkameriana seedlings are fast-growing, vigorous and adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions. Like rough lemon, it will grow well in deep sands where some rootstocks struggle. Fruit quality is not as good as that produced on citrange and Trifoliata stocks, but it is reported to be better than that produced by rough lemon.
Volkameriana is not susceptible to tristeza virus or exocortis and xyloporosis viroids. It is susceptible to citrus nematodes and phytophthora root rot but less so than rough lemon. It is not recommended for replant situations.
Compatibility
Volkameriana is compatible with lemons, most oranges and mandarins. Mandarin varieties susceptible to internal granulation (drying), such as Imperial, should not be planted on this stock which has been shown to enhance this problem.
Local experience
This rootstock has performed quite well in a Newhall navel demonstration block planted at West Gingin in 1995. In the sandy soils it out yielded other stocks including Trifoliata and Swingle in the early years.
Sugar and acid levels are not as high as for many other stocks and can drop relatively quickly. Fruit should not be left on the tree too long or they can become bland.
Imperial mandarins on this stock have had problems with internal granulation (drying), especially on sandy soils.